Miller Barondess secured a significant victory for the County of Los Angeles, obtaining a $3.8 million judgment and a permanent injunction against the operators of an unpermitted event venue in Santa Clarita following more than five years of litigation. The outcome demonstrates the County’s strong commitment and ability to enforce land use and public safety laws against noncompliant commercial operators.
The Miller Barondess team includes Amnon Z. Siegel, Jason H. Tokoro, and Steven G. Williamson. (The People of the State of California, et al. v. Ben & Reef Gardens, Inc., et al., 20STCV40645 (Related Case Nos. 22STCV05516, 22STCV11748) (L.A. Super. Ct. filed Oct. 23, 2020).
The court found that defendants Shaul Yakovi, Ronit Waizgen, Gardens of Paradise, LLC, and Ben & Reef Gardens, Inc. unlawfully operated the large commercial event venue “Gardens of Paradise” for years in violation of Los Angeles County zoning, building, and fire codes. Despite repeated warnings and enforcement efforts, the defendants continued to host events without required permits, including large gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic, and repeatedly obstructed County inspections.
After granting summary adjudication in favor of the County, the court entered judgment on April 16, 2026. The ruling includes $802,000 in penalties for nuisance abatement violations, $2,005,000 in penalties under California’s Unfair Competition Law, and more than $958,000 in attorneys’ fees and costs, totaling approximately $3.8 million.
The court also issued a permanent injunction prohibiting the defendants from operating the property until they secure all required permits and achieve full compliance with fire and safety codes. The order further authorizes the County to enforce the injunction, including securing the premises, installing barriers, and removing violators.
This decision brings an end to years of unlawful operations at the property and reinforces the County’s authority to enforce its safety and land use regulations against noncompliant commercial operators.
“The County is pleased with the result and appreciates the court’s diligent attention to this important matter,” said Amnon Z. Siegel, lead counsel. “Defendants operated without required permits and flouted important legal requirements and County regulations. This judgment holds defendants accountable and protects the community going forward.”